President Erdogan of Turkey has proposed to mediate tensions between Sudan and the UAE, following a recent call with Sudan’s military leader, Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan. This comes amid accusations from Sudan against the UAE of supporting rival forces. The ongoing conflict has displaced millions since April 2023, leading to a humanitarian crisis. Erdogan previously facilitated discussions between Ethiopia and Somalia, furthering Turkey’s role in regional diplomacy.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey has extended an offer to mediate between Sudan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) amid rising tensions between the two nations. During a recent telephone conversation with Sudan’s military leader, General Abdel-Fattah Burhan, Erdogan expressed Turkey’s readiness to facilitate dialogue and negotiation, emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in Sudan and the need to respect territorial integrity. This offer follows Erdogan’s success in brokering a deal between Ethiopia and Somalia, demonstrating Turkey’s growing role as a mediator in regional conflicts.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has displaced over 13 million people since mid-April 2023, when clashes arose between military and paramilitary factions. The Sudanese government has accused the UAE of supplying weapons to opposition forces, although the UAE denies these allegations and accuses Sudan’s government of evading peace negotiations. Erdogan’s commitment to mediation is viewed as a potential step towards establishing a more stable political landscape in Sudan.
Erdogan is not only addressing the situation in Sudan but also continues to engage with Ethiopia and Somalia, promoting dialogue aimed at resolving disputes. Recently, he met with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to affirm Somalia’s territorial rights while discussing Ethiopia’s aspirations along its coastline with Somaliland. This underscores Turkey’s strategic involvement in fostering regional harmony and stability across the Horn of Africa.
The tensions between Sudan and the UAE arise from accusations of external interference and support for rival armed groups within Sudan’s complex political landscape. Following a significant escalation of conflict in mid-April 2023, these allegations have intensified, contributing to a severe humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced. Turkey’s efforts to mediate are indicative of its broader diplomatic strategy to enhance its influence in the region, particularly following successful negotiations between Ethiopia and Somalia that addressed similar issues of territorial integrity and resource sharing. The context of Erdogan’s offer reflects Turkey’s aspirations to act as a peace broker in a volatile environment, amidst a backdrop of historical ties and strategic interests in Africa.
In summary, President Erdogan’s offer to mediate between Sudan and the UAE signifies a proactive step towards reducing regional tensions and fostering dialogue. As Sudan grapples with significant internal strife and external claims of interference, Turkey aims to position itself as a key mediator capable of addressing complex geopolitical disputes. This engagement not only underscores the urgent need for resolution in Sudan but also illustrates Turkey’s increased diplomatic presence and influence in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
